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Santa Clara County

Lexington Hills

The best traffic-free bike rides around Lexington Hills

4.8

(23)

1,433

riders

10

rides

No traffic road cycling routes around Lexington Hills are characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and expansive open space preserves within the Santa Cruz Mountains. The region features varied terrain, including the Lexington Reservoir and its surrounding parklands, providing diverse environments for road cycling. Cyclists encounter both challenging ascents and exhilarating descents through mountainous environments and dense forests.

Best no traffic road cycling routes around Lexington Hills

  • The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Granite Creek Road – Santa Cruz Boardwalk loop from Santa Cruz Mountains, a 33.3 miles (53.7 km) trail that takes 2 hours 48 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers significant elevation gain and leads towards the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.
  • Another top favourite among local road cyclists is James J. Lenihan Dam – Forbes Mill Museum loop from Santa Cruz Mountains, a difficult 30.9 miles (49.7 km) path. This route features varied scenery including the James J. Lenihan Dam and Forbes Mill Museum, with substantial climbing.
  • Local road cyclists also love the Mountain Charlie Road – Mountain Charlie Rd loop from Redwood Estates, a 24.4 miles (39.2 km) trail leading through forested hills, often completed in about 2 hours 14 minutes.
  • Road cycling around Lexington Hills is defined by rolling hills, lush forests, and mountain environments. The network offers options for various ability levels, from moderate rides to challenging climbs.
  • The routes in Lexington Hills are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 1,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lexington Hills's varied terrain.

Last updated: October 30, 2026

10

riders

#1.

Mountain Charlie Road – Mountain Charlie Rd loop from Redwood Estates

39.2km

02:14

880m

890m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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Tips from the Community

Luca
April 23, 2023, Mountain Charlie Road

Hard on the climb, but a wonderful route through a peaceful forest.

0

0

Nico
September 25, 2022, Mountain Charlie Rd

From Gleenwwod Drive it's all uphill until you take the overpass over Highway 17, but mostly single-digit gradients

0

0

This is a really nice small road out of the beaten path that goes all the way from Glenwood Drive (Scotts Valley) to Old Santa Cruz Highway. The pavement is in reasonable shape, there is no traffic, and you can ride in the shade of the trees

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Lexington Hills?

Lexington Hills offers a good selection of no-traffic road cycling routes, with 10 routes featured in this guide. These routes are designed to provide a serene cycling experience away from vehicle congestion.

What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills?

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills feature varied terrain, from rolling hills and lush forests to challenging mountain ascents. You can expect mostly paved surfaces, with some routes offering significant climbs like those leading to panoramic viewpoints. The landscape provides both demanding sections and exhilarating descents.

Are there options for different skill levels on these no-traffic routes?

Yes, the routes cater to various skill levels. While there are no easy routes listed in this guide, you'll find 6 moderate routes and 4 difficult routes. Experienced riders looking for a challenge can explore options like the James J. Lenihan Dam – Forbes Mill Museum loop, which features over 1000 meters of elevation gain.

What natural features or landmarks can I see along no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills?

Many routes offer stunning natural features. You can cycle past significant bodies of water like Lexington Reservoir and Vasona Lake. The area also boasts impressive peaks and viewpoints, including the challenging Mount Umunhum Road climb and scenic spots like Randol Trail.

Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills?

Yes, several no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Granite Creek Road – Santa Cruz Boardwalk loop and the Mountain Charlie Road – Mountain Charlie Rd loop, offering convenient round trips.

What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Lexington Hills?

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Lexington Hills are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 16 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet roads, challenging climbs, and the beautiful natural scenery, especially around the reservoirs and mountain viewpoints.

What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in Lexington Hills?

Lexington Hills generally offers good cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be warm, especially on exposed climbs, while winter might bring cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a significant challenge, routes like the James J. Lenihan Dam – Forbes Mill Museum loop are classified as difficult, featuring substantial elevation gains and longer distances. These routes will test your fitness and reward you with expansive views.

Where can I park when planning a no-traffic road cycling trip in Lexington Hills?

Parking is typically available at various access points and parks surrounding the routes. For instance, areas near Lexington Reservoir County Park or other regional parks often provide parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended starting points and parking options.

Are there any longer no-traffic road cycling routes for extended rides?

Yes, if you're looking for longer rides, Lexington Hills has options that can keep you on the road for several hours. The Granite Creek Road – Santa Cruz Boardwalk loop, for example, covers over 53 kilometers and takes approximately 2 hours and 48 minutes, offering a substantial ride.

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